Summit County Fishing Report: Muddy waters challenge anglers

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Summer thunderstorms can quickly muddy sections of a stream or river, something that we frequently see on the Eagle, Roaring Fork and Colorado rivers this time of year. When the clarity is down, switch to big, dark streamers, or increase your nymph sizes. Keep in mind that in off-colored waters, dark colors such as red or black are more easily seen by the fish.

The Blue River below Dillon Reservoir has been fishing decent with mysis shrimp, attractor patterns (try red or pink) and various midges. The upper sections of the Colorado River have the best clarity and are offering solid dry-fly action. The lower sections below State Bridge are stained but fishing well with stones and other large nymphs.

The action on the lower Roaring Fork has slowed. A better bet is to fish above Carbondale. When the breeze is up, try ant patterns. Hopper/dropper rigs are also a good bet. Water levels on the Eagle have dropped to ideal wading levels. Look for good evening caddis action.

Wolford Mountain Reservoir continues to produce good numbers of kokanee for those trolling. Fish are being caught shallower than in prior weeks.

Williams Fork Reservoir has been producing fair numbers of smaller lake trout for those jigging. Water temperatures are in the mid-60s. The best fishing is in the early late hours for trout. Pike have moved deeper. Working drop-offs with spinner baits or spoons is a good option.

Jefferson Lake has recently been stocked with catchable rainbows, offering great action for those looking just to catch a few fish. Most any bait or lure will produce a few fish at this time.

Taylor Park is fishing well for lake trout in 65-80 feet of water when jigging various lures right on the bottom. Tipping with sucker meat or a night crawler will increase your catch rate. The reservoir has also been recently stocked, making for good fishing if fishing deep for lakers isn’t your game.

Dave Coulson is the Colorado state editor for www.fishexplorer.com. He contributes a weekly fishing report to the Summit Daily News.